Action
Notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM).
Summary
FRA is proposing a rule establishing comprehensive Federal safety standards for railroad passenger equipment. The proposed rule contains requirements concerning equipment design and performance criteria related to passenger and crew survivability in the event of a passenger train accident; the inspection, testing, and maintenance of passenger equipment; and the safe operation of passenger train service. The proposed rule is designed to address the safety of passenger train service in an environment where technology is advancing, and equipment is being designed for operation at higher speeds. The rule would amend existing regulations concerning special notice for repairs, safety glazing, locomotive safety, safety appliances, and railroad power brakes as applied to passenger equipment. The proposed rule does not apply to tourist and historic railroad operations. However, after consulting with the excursion railroad associations to determine appropriate applicability in light of financial, operational, or other factors unique to such operations, FRA may prescribe requirements for these operations that are different from those affecting other types of passenger operations.